Warning, Warning!

2 Corinthians 6:14 – 7:1

     Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can goodness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? What harmony can there be between Christ and the Devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever? And what union can there be between God’s temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said:

            "I will live in them and walk among them.

             I will be their God,

             and they will be my people.

             Therefore, come out from them

             and separate yourselves from them, says the Lord.

             Don't touch their filthy things,

             and I will welcome you.

             And I will be your Father

             and you will be my sons and daughters,

             says the Lord Almighty."

Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body and spirit. And let us work toward complete purity because we fear God.

     Too many people take these verses to mean total separation from anyone and anything that doesn’t believe in the same way they do, even to the point of being mean spirited and rude. This is not what Paul was referring to, in these verses. As believers of Jesus Christ, we are to be a light in a dark world, sharing the truth and love of Jesus Christ with everyone and anyone we come in contact with. In order to accomplish this, we must associate and be friendly with everyone. Should we get into deep, intimate personal and business relationships with non-believers? No, that is where the line needs to be drawn. That is what Paul is trying to communicate here. When we are personally intimate with others, spending untold numbers of hours each day with them; we become influenced by their beliefs and customs. And if those beliefs or customs are contrary to the word of God, then we usually become torn as to whether to accept them or not. This is especially true in marriage. Loyalties between God and spouse are challenged, and often result in heartache and stress.

     Making the decision to be loyal to God and His truth before entering into a deep, intimate relationship with someone who doesn’t have the same belief system, will save us from much turmoil down the road.

     Are you entertaining relationships that are in direct opposition to what you believe?( If you’re already married, God does not want you to end your marital relationship, but rather, continue to pray for your unbelieving spouse, as you faithfully serve and love them.) Are you afraid to be by yourself so you befriend anyone that will accept you? Take some time today, to examine your belief system and whether or not it truly lines up with the word of God. Ask God to show you where to make changes in the friendships that you currently have in your life.

Have a great day!